Rajouri, April 17, 2026:

In a significant move to safeguard communal harmony and public peace, the District Magistrate Rajouri, Abhishek Sharma (IAS), has issued a strict order placing immediate restrictions on the misuse of social media platforms across the district.

The order highlights growing concerns over the spread of provocative, false, and inflammatory content on platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), YouTube, and Telegram. Authorities have warned that such misuse can lead to communal tensions, violence, and serious threats to public safety.

Under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, several activities have been strictly prohibited. These include posting or sharing content that promotes hatred between communities, spreading fake or misleading information, circulating morphed or doctored images, and organizing unlawful assemblies through social media.

The administration has also cautioned against spreading rumors or unverified information related to law and order situations. Citizens are advised to verify all information from official and credible sources before sharing.

Violations of the order may attract strict legal action under multiple provisions, including BNS 2023 and the Information Technology Act, 2000, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment of up to 7 years or more, depending on the severity of the offense.

Additionally, social media group administrators and platform intermediaries have been made jointly responsible for monitoring and preventing the circulation of prohibited content. Failure to comply may result in legal consequences, including loss of legal protection under IT rules.

The police and cyber units have been directed to maintain round-the-clock surveillance, and FIRs will be registered against violators without delay.

This order will remain in force for 60 days, unless modified or withdrawn earlier.